Franz Haydn Piano Sonata No. 46 in E major, Hob. XVI: 31 Franz Schubert Piano Sonata in D major, D850 Johannes Brahms Variations and Fugue on a theme of Handel, Op. 24 Bernard Roberts, piano Recorded August 29, 2003, Third Chetham's Festival Festival for Pianists Dunelm Records DRD0212 [79:56] Pianist: Bernard Roberts has recorded often for the Nimbus label including the complete Beethoven Piano Sonatas and the Bach Partitas and Well Tempered Clavier. Studio Recordings vs. Dunelm Recital: In his studio recordings, Roberts tends to be tasteful and light with a penchant for legato phrasing. The recital disc gives us a different Roberts - much more adventurous and incisive with sharp contours. Schubert Performance: Aggressive and impetuous; quite surprising. Roberts doesn't pay much attention to Schubert's singing lines and is about the opposite of Wilhelm Kempff on DG. Haydn Performance: Excellent, capturing all the sparkle, aristocracy, wit, and energy of the music. Brahms Performance: Perhaps the best version on record. I compared it to the Fleischer on Sony that is one of my favorites, and Roberts wins my heart. His Fugue is sensational in terms of conveying the coherence so often lacking in other recorded versions. Sound Quality: Good detail and depth, but there is some congestion in the loudest passages. Don's Recommendation: Essential for the Brahms, but Schubert fans will likely miss the reduced lyricism. Roberts enthusiasts will surely be surprised at his verve. Don Satz [log in to unmask]